MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Aguas Calientes

Getting Around Aguas Calientes

Cuzco And The Sacred Valley, Peru

Public Transportation Overview

The main transportation hub is the Aguas Calientes train station, located centrally in the town. From here, the only public transport option directly serves Machu Picchu.

The Machu Picchu shuttle bus is the sole public transit service for visitors accessing the citadel from town. This service operates frequently throughout the day, providing access.

Machu Picchu Shuttle Bus Details

  • Ticketing: Purchase tickets at the official bus ticket office in Aguas Calientes (near train station) or online.
  • Fare: A round-trip fare is approximately USD $24-25 for foreigners. Children usually receive a discount.
  • Hours of Operation: Approximately 5:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Buses run every 10-15 minutes, depending on demand.
  • Accessibility: Buses are not specifically designed for wheelchair accessibility. Machu Picchu site involves stairs and uneven terrain.

Walk Everywhere in Town

Distances are short within Aguas Calientes.

Early Bus to Machu Picchu

Use the early morning buses to beat the largest crowds at Machu Picchu for a more serene experience.

Walking Up to Machu Picchu

Consider walking up the steep path from Aguas Calientes (approx. 1.5 hours) if physically fit. It saves the bus fare.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

No Intra-Town Taxis
  • The concept of taxis and ride-sharing services does not apply to Aguas Calientes for intra-town travel.
  • The town is pedestrian-only, with the exception of the official Machu Picchu shuttle buses.
  • Ride-sharing apps like Uber are not available in Aguas Calientes.
Airport/Station Taxis in Cusco
  • Taxis are readily available in Cusco for transport to and from the Poroy or Ollantaytambo train stations.
  • Always negotiate the fare before starting your trip.
  • Safety considerations for different options: Use licensed taxis in Cusco.

Rental Options Not Available

Car Rental

Not applicable in Aguas Calientes. Park vehicles in Ollantaytambo.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Rentals are not available.

Bicycle Rentals

No formal programs exist. Terrain limits utility.

Specialty Vehicles

None beyond the Machu Picchu shuttle bus.

Walking & Cycling

Walking is the main and most pleasant way to explore Aguas Calientes. The town is entirely pedestrian-friendly.

Pedestrian Areas

  • Pathways along the Urubamba River for scenic strolls.
  • The main street, Avenida Pachacutec, is a pleasant promenade.
  • Walkable routes lead to restaurants, markets, and the hot springs.
  • Self-guided walks around the town are easy and recommended.

Cycling Limitations

  • Bicycle infrastructure is very limited.
  • The terrain around Aguas Calientes is mountainous and not suitable for casual cycling.
  • Safety concerns arise from narrow paths and pedestrian traffic.
  • No specific "no-go" areas exist; follow common sense safety rules.

Specialized Transportation

  • Machu Picchu Shuttle Bus: The main specialized transportation in Aguas Calientes.
  • No other hop-on-hop-off services operate in Aguas Calientes.
  • No boat taxis or water transportation services are available.
  • No cable cars or funiculars operate in Aguas Calientes.
  • Accessibility services for mobility needs are limited; plan assistance in advance.
  • Guided tours typically focus on Machu Picchu itself, not Aguas Calientes town.

Driving Laws & Parking

No Driving in Town

Driving laws and parking information are not applicable to Aguas Calientes.

Pedestrian-Only Zones

The town mainly operates as a pedestrian-only zone.

External Parking

Vehicles must park in Ollantaytambo or other Sacred Valley towns before taking the train.

Walking Accessibility

Aguas Calientes is a highly walkable town, with much of its charm discovered on foot. However, the path to Machu Picchu involves a steep climb or a bus ride on a winding road.

Pedestrian Navigation

  • The main train station is centrally located, making it a good starting point.
  • Explore narrow streets, riverside paths, and the artisan market on foot.
  • Restaurants and shops are within easy walking distance.
  • Access to the hot springs is a straightforward walk from town.

Machu Picchu Footpath

  • A steep, paved path leads from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
  • This walk takes approximately 1.5 hours uphill and is strenuous.
  • Most visitors opt for the shuttle bus for comfort and time saving.

Accessibility Considerations

Uneven Terrain

Much of Aguas Calientes and especially Machu Picchu feature stairs and uneven paths.

Challenging for mobility impairments.

Limited Wheelchair Access

Public transportation (shuttle buses) and paths lack specific features for wheelchair accessibility.

Plan for additional assistance.

Pre-Arranged Support

Arrange specialized tours and assistance well in advance if you have mobility needs.

Ensures a smoother experience.

Cycling Information

Bicycle Infrastructure
  • No formal bicycle sharing programs exist.
  • Some hotels might offer bicycle rentals.
  • The mountainous terrain is not ideal for casual cycling.
Safety & Utility
  • Narrow paths and pedestrian traffic pose safety concerns for cyclists.
  • Limited dedicated cycling paths restrict utility for exploration.
  • Walking is the main and most efficient mode of movement.

Safety for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • No specific "no-go" areas exist within Aguas Calientes.
  • Adhere to general safety practices, like sticking to well-lit areas at night.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded market areas.
  • Walking paths to Machu Picchu are steep; wear appropriate footwear.
  • River paths can be slippery, especially during wet season.
  • Stay clear of train tracks, used by active trains.
  • Carry rain gear, as weather can change suddenly.
  • A small first aid kit addresses minor scrapes or blisters.

Specialized Transportation

The shuttle bus to Machu Picchu represents the main specialized transportation in Aguas Calientes.

Machu Picchu Shuttle

  • Dedicated shuttle service transports visitors up to the archaeological site.
  • This is the main means of reaching Machu Picchu from town.
  • Tickets are separate from Machu Picchu entry and purchased in town or online.
  • Buses depart frequently throughout operating hours.

Unique Local Transport

  • No boat taxis or water transportation services on the Urubamba River for passenger transport.
  • No cable cars, funiculars, or other unique transport systems within the town.
  • Accessibility services for mobility needs are limited due to terrain; arrange specialized assistance.
  • No formal tour buses or hop-on-hop-off services within Aguas Calientes itself.

Challenging Terrain

The surrounding mountainous terrain and paths within Machu Picchu are challenging.

Limited Accessibility

Mobility impaired travelers will find access challenging in many areas.

Seek Local Assistance

Pre-arranging support with local operators is advisable for special needs.

Benefits of the Shuttle

Time Efficiency
  • Saves valuable time for exploring Machu Picchu.
  • Avoids the strenuous uphill walk before visiting the ruins.
  • Timely arrivals for pre-booked entry slots at the citadel.
Comfort & Convenience
  • A comfortable ride, especially after a long day of hiking.
  • Convenient for carrying daypacks and gear.
  • Reduces physical exertion, allowing more energy for Machu Picchu exploration.

Final Transportation Tips

Book your train tickets and Machu Picchu bus tickets as far in advance as possible, especially for peak season travel.

← Previous
Getting There & Away
← Back to Aguas Calientes
Next →
Accommodation Guide

Next Up: Accommodation Guide

Continue to Accommodation Guide